Description: IdZ-ES (Future Soldier - Expanded System) or Gladius since 2012 is a new variant ordered by the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) in 2006 to meet the requirements of German soldiers at home and abroad. Incorporating NATO-compliant fully digital voice, data, video and other communication systems, the improved IdZ-ES may be integrated into German Army's FuInfoSys command and information system or other equivalent systems deployed by NATO partners. IdZ-ES will include: computer, Linux-based operating system, sensors, helmet system with display and voice radio, GPS-based navigation aids, body armor and carrying system. The system will allow real-time information exchange between the soldier, vehicle units and relevant networks using Rheinmetall's Interconnected Command Control Communications Computer Unit (IC4U).

The contract awarded to Rheinmetall was made public in September 2006 and provides funds for the IdZ-ES development through 2008 when two representative system would be delivered to the Bundeswehr. Production series are expected to start in 2009/2010 and continue through 2014 with an estimated 900 systems delivered to the armed forces of Germany. The development contract also encompasses the integration of the system into modern armored platforms such as Boxer, Puma and Wiesel. Rheinmetall will develop a wide range of sensors mainly for fire control and mine detection. A visor-equipped helmet and a soldier's health status system are under study. Starting in 2009, Germany's infantryman, armored infantryman, air force security troops and navy's special operations units will be outfitted with the IdZ-ES.

The IdZ-ES' standard equipment is the 5.56mm G36A2 assault rifle fitted with opto-electronic component. The IdZ-ES is also compatible with the advanced AG36 assault rifle which has been designed for a wide range of ammunition such as non-lethal kinetic energy projectiles and fragmentation grenades. A ten-man squad equipped with the new combat system also includes an MG4 5.56mm machine gun, an G82 12.7mm gun and shoulder-launched Panzerfaust 3 anti-tank weapon. The basic clothing provides level 1 ballistic protection which can be extended up to level 4.